As a fair and balanced travel writer, I’ve compiled a comparison to help backpackers choose between Brussels and Munich, focusing on budget and practicalities. Prices are realistic estimates for European cities and can fluctuate based on season, demand, and specific choices.

Which City Offers a More Budget-Friendly Experience?

Munich is generally considered more expensive than Brussels, particularly for accommodation and dining out. Brussels often provides a slightly more budget-friendly experience for backpackers. Backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in European cities, with Munich usually trending towards the higher end of this range compared to Brussels.

What is a Realistic Daily Budget for Backpackers in Each City?

A realistic daily budget for a backpacker includes a hostel bed, basic food, and local transport, excluding major paid attractions.

• Brussels: Expect to budget around €40-60 per day.
• Munich: Due to higher costs, budget approximately €50-75 per day.

How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?

Accommodation is often the largest expense. Prices are for a dorm bed in a hostel.

• Hostel beds in Brussels can typically be found for €18-35 per night, varying by season and location.
• Hostel beds in Munich often range from €25-45 per night, sometimes higher during peak seasons or major events like Oktoberfest, reflecting the city’s generally higher cost of living.

What Are the Food and Drink Expenses?

For budget-conscious backpackers, food costs can be managed in both cities.

• In both cities, backpackers can spend €10-20 per day on food by utilizing supermarkets, street food, and self-catering options.
• Meals at local, casual restaurants typically cost €8-15 in European cities. While this holds true for both, Munich’s restaurant scene can skew towards the higher end. Local beers in Munich might also be slightly pricier than in Brussels.

How Do Transport Costs Differ?

Public transport is efficient in both cities.

• Public transport in Brussels (trams, buses, metro) for a day pass or multiple single tickets typically costs €7-10 per day, depending on usage.
• Public transport in Munich (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, buses) can be slightly more expensive, with a day ticket often ranging from €8-12, depending on zones and validity.

When Is the Best Time to Visit for Budget Travel?

For both Brussels and Munich, visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) typically offers lower prices for accommodation and flights compared to the peak summer months. Winter, outside of holiday periods, can also be more budget-friendly. To stretch your budget further, AllInMap can help locate free amenities like public toilets and water fountains in any season.